Watercolor on paper, signed and dated 1816 at lower left, presented under glass in an ornate antique gilt and composition frame with oak leaf and acorn motif.

SS 7.5 x 9.75 in.; DOA 17 3/8 x 15.25 in.

Heaphy established the Society of British Artists in 1823, to which he was elected its first president. A noted portraitist, 39 original watercolor portraits by Heaphy are in the permanent collection of the National Portrait Gallery, London, UK.

An antique hand-written note affixed to the verso identifies the sitter as Sir William East. Born in 1738, East was created a Baronet in 1766. He resided in the early Georgian manor, Hall Place, Maidenhead, Berkshire, built by his father. This portrait is accompanied by English Country Houses: Early Georgian 1715-1760 by Christopher Hussey (London: Country Life Limited, 1965).

Some repairs to frame; not examined out of the frame.

$400 - 800